Occupational Therapist
What is Occupational Therapy in an acute hospital?
Sometimes following an illness, injury or operation people may have difficulty carrying out their daily activities. Occupational therapy aims to help people to carry out the activities – or ‘occupations’ – they need to do and want to do. This can include personal care, domestic tasks, leisure and work. Occupational therapy ‘enables people to achieve health, well-being and life satisfaction through participation in occupation’ [Royal College of Occupational Therapists 2003]
Based in the renowned CUH, our dedicated occupational therapy team delivers a patient-centred service to over one thousand patients in a specialist treatment centre with a worldwide reputation.
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What careers are available within Occupational Therapy?
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How do I become an Occupational Therapist?
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What qualifications are required to work in occupational therapy?
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Where can I study?
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What personal qualities and experience do I need to work in Occupational Therapy?
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What is an Occupational Therapy Assistant?
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What qualifications do I need to be an Occupational Therapy Assistant?
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Are there work-shadow opportunities in the department?
Useful links
Contact Occupational Therapy
The Royal College of Occupational Therapists is primarily involved with the professional standards and educational aspects of occupational therapy, together with the development of research activity, evidence-based practice and the continuing professional development (CPD) of its members. The College also represents the profession on a local, national and international level. The advisory role of the College is crucial in influencing all governmental policies and procedures that affect the practice of occupational therapy.
Career Handbook: The Royal College of Occupational Therapists have a very useful career handbook which provides plenty of information and answers some frequently asked questions.
All therapists working in the UK must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council: For occupational therapists who have overseas qualifications, contact: Park House, 184 Kennington Park Road, London SE11 4BU; Tel (+44) 0207 840 9700
My Role as an Occupational Therapy Assistant is to supervise a group of patients with varying needs who are nearing discharge from hospital. The session engages patients to practice their morning routine and prepare their own choice of breakfast and a drink. The group takes place in the day room, away from their beds, allowing for a more homely environment. Patients receive social and physical assistance and often feel a sense of a return to life before their hospital admission which is an important factor in increasing their independence and sense of wellbeing. On a more personal level the group is extremely enjoyable . It gives the patients the opportunity to socialise with their peers and reminisce about familiar topics.
As an OTA I have the chance to build rapport with my patients and listen to some amazing life stories, the group truly is beneficial to all involved.